Each belt rank has a curriculum which is specific to that level of training. The curriculum is outlined in segments which correlate to the weekly lesson topics outlined above. A copy of the curriculum is included in this manual so that students can study and practice independently. However, regular class attendance is mandatory and self-teaching at or above your level is strongly discouraged.

Because training regularly is important, we use attendance cards to record each student’s attendance. Attending two to three classes each week should enable you to see the progress and results that you desire.

When you arrive for class, find your attendance card on the rack located inside the Dojang. You can review the study materials on the back of the card and the training on the requirements on the front as you stretch before class. You are responsible for all of the material on your attendance cards during exams.

When class starts, bring your card when you line up. Instructors collect the cards at the beginning of every class. The instructors not only record attendance, but also check off the training requirement for each rank to help keep you on track toward your goals.

All cards are color-coded according to belt color, except the grey card, which are for Black Belts.

Once a student has earned all of the required stripes, the instructor will issue an Examination Form. Colored belt examinations are conducted on a monthly basis. Little Warriors examinations are also conducted once a month and are always on a Saturday morning.

This is a special day. Students are encouraged to bring friends and family members to watch their exam and take pictures and/or videos. Lower rank belts are encouraged to attend the color belt exam to learn what is expected of them in the future. And all students are encouraged to attend belt exams to show support for their Taekwondo family members.

Students must submit a completed Examination Form at least two days before the exam date. When completing your application, make sure to include your belt size and current belt rank. All Examination Forms and testing fees should be handed in no later than the Thursday prior to testing.

Exams are an important part of your Taekwondo training at W.O.W. Exams give you an opportunity to show your instructors, fellow students and families that you understand and can competently demonstrate the techniques and knowledge listed in the curriculum for your current rank.

Exams are not meant to be easy, but remember that you are invited to test only after your instructor believes you are ready. It is a good idea to think of each exam as a challenge to be enjoyed, rather than an ordeal to be endured. The atmosphere at an exam is energetic and supportive. Remember that our mission is to help you succeed.

The following prerequisites apply to color belt exams:

Attend a minimum of 24 classes during a three month period.*
Earn four stripes
Receive your instructor’s approval.
*High Red Belts must attend a minimum of 32 classes during a four month period.

– Make sure you get a good night’s sleep
– Eat a hearty breakfast
– Hydrate
– Bring friends and family for support
– Make sure your uniform (dobok) is clean
– Bring sparring gear (if applicable)
– Be on time
– Prepare to do your best and be loud

As you train, you will progress through various Taekwondo ranks. The lower ranks (called Kub in Korean) are indicated by colored belts. The higher black belt ranks (called Dan in Korean, or Degree in English) follow the Kub ranks. Each Kub rank is associated with a belt color. For each belt color, there is also a high Kub rank. Belts for the high Kub ranks are striped in color of the belt of the next rank. New students have no belt at all until they learn basic introductory material, and have no Kub rank. White belt students also do not have a Kub rank.

The following lists the Kub ranks and Deputy Black Belt rank, and the typical time required to advance to the next rank. Advancement is accomplished by competently demonstrating the requirements of each rank in public exams.

After working through the Kub ranks, students become eligible to advance to the lowest Dan rank, Deputy Black Belt (Bo Dan in Korean). The requirements for advancement to Deputy Black Belt are more rigorous than the requirements for advancing to even the highest Kub rank.

Whenever the instructor feels that you understand and can competently demonstrate the particular requirement, you can earn a tip on your belt. After the first stripe is earned, the instructor will award another stripe when the next of the requirement belt is mastered. After all the requirements for advancing to the next rank are demonstrated, testing information will be given to the student.

White Stripe is for Poomse
Yellow Stripe is for Self-Defense
Green Stripe is for Sparring
Blue Stripe is for Breaking

In addition to the usual rules of etiquette, we follow some rules that are specific to the Dojang. These rules are based on traditional Asian values of respect and courtesy. Students of lower belt rank bow to students of higher rank. The senior students return the bow.

Instructors and senior black belts are addressed as “sir” or “ma’am”. When addressing the instructor or senior black belt, use the appropriate title, such as “Mr. Edwards” or “Mrs. Edwards”. Black belts holding a rank of fourth degree or higher are addressed as “Master”, such as “Master Fleming”. A black belt indicates rank by the number of gold stripes tipping in the belt.

When you enter and leave the Dojang, bow to the flags. Only martial art shoes may be worn in the Dojang. However, students are encouraged to practice without shoes. If you do decide to wear martial art shoes those shoes should not be worn anywhere other than the Dojang.

Class time is especially respected. If you remain in the Dojang during a class, but are not participating, stay quietly in the back of the room. Do not interrupt a class. You can use the time to stretch or study the curriculum printed on the back of your attendance card.

The standard uniform is the Taekwondo Dobok; a top and a pair of pants designed for comfort and durability during training. All students should have a full set of patches on their Dobok before advancing to the High White Belt level. The set of patches consists of the American Flag and the Korean Flag.

WOW T-shirts are allowed to be worn during Stretching – and Sparring/Fitness class. The full uniform should be worn in all other classes

A belt indicating rank is worn at the waist. Your instructor will go over the meaning and proper care of your uniform and belt.

Unless told otherwise, you should wear your Dobok to all school events.

All students are required to wear safety gear during their training. Though safe, Taekwondo is a contact sport and your safety is our first concern. With proper safety gear you will be able to learn techniques more effectively and realistically, while limiting the potential of injury to yourself and others.

White Belt
Foot and hand gear are optional, but recommended.
High White Belt
Foot and hand gear are mandatory.
Yellow Belt & Up
Chest and headgear as well as groin cup and mouth guard are also mandatory.
Please ensure to keep all gear together in an equipment bag. Proper safety gear can be purchased at WOW Taekwondo™. Students should have their names clearly written on their gear.

Students must bring their safety gear to each class they attend. Additionally, safety gear is required at belt exams and tournaments.

Please make sure your name is on all your equipment. WOW Taekwondo™ is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Personal items should be taken home with you at the end of class. Items left behind will be placed in the Lost and Found and if not claimed after 1 week, it will be donated to charity.

About Us

Rooted in the rigor of Kukkiwon Taekwondo, WOW provides its students with a holistic martial arts experience focusing on the pursuit of excellence in sport and life in a way that is inviting, supportive and fun. We are a family-run school and take great pride in our community involvement.